Texas Instruments modules

[digibloke]

I got hold of a couple of none working TI watches last weekend. Both modules look like new but there are no signs of life at all. On the front of the modules is a metalic sticker which looks like it's there for a purpose but I can't see anywhere it could be making a contact.

I've never worked on one of these before so I'm at a bit of a loss as to where to start. Is there anything obvious that I should be looking for to get them going and does anyone know what this metal sticker is there for?

Any pointers much appreciated as per usual

[Led-Time]

First thing I'd try is the quartz crystal I've a feeling it may just be a simple fix thats needed I did one the same recently and it kept perfect time with its modern quartz fitted...

[retroleds]

The sticker(probably copper ?) - best I can figure is they thought it would provide some protection from electrical interferance,since many of their watches are plastic.

Look if the plastic block between the batteries is a separate piece from rest of module - if so, grab it with the tweezers and pull it out - you'll have a lot more room for working and won't have to worry about messing up the combination battery clip/contact clip(an "ill-formed" idea, IMO). On most TI modules the contact at 3 oclock will act as command button, one at far left(9 oclock is setter...so with a little work you can also fit their modules that were set up for buttons at 2 & 4 into a TI with buttons at 3 & 9.

Try a new crystal and let us know your results.

[digibloke]

Yup the sticker is copper - and there is a rubber plug seperating the batteries. I've ruled out connection/broken circuit problems so I will try a new X-tal on one of them over the weekend. Thanks for the suggestion.